Understanding Your Freedom of Speech in South Dakota In South Dakota, just like everywhere else in the United States, your right to freedom of speech is a cornerstone of our democracy. This fundamental protection is enshrined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which declares that "Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." While this language directly references Congress, the Fourteenth Amendment extends these protections to state and local governments, meaning South Dakota government entities, officials, and public institutions are bound by its tenets. The essence of free speech isn't just about what you say, but also how you say it, where you say it, and even what you choose not to say. It encompasses a vast array of expression, from spoken words and written articles to artistic creations, symbolic acts lik...
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